Along with outdoor concerts, free outdoor movies ranks high on the list of reasons that summer is the best time of year in New York City. And there are more interesting outdoor venues than ever screening movies this July and August. Governors Island’s new film series is truly your best bet for an uncrowded, al fresco movie viewing experience (and yes we know it’s not in Brooklyn, but it’s just a ferry ride away). Rooftop Films is now screening a handful of its summer films at Green-Wood Cemetery, which should add some eerie ambiance to your night, and they’ve included Fort Greene Park in their lineup for the first time ever. Parklife in Gowanus is living up to its name and making full use of its courtyard for a new Monday movie series. We’ve also added one other non-Brooklyn rooftop film series to the list–Azul at Soho’s Hotel Hugo–simply because their calendar is so good (everything from Mean Girls to Scarface) and it goes on well into October. So take a peep at the lineup and pencil your favorite cult classics to watch under the stars.

Note: All of the following movies are free, except where indicated, and be sure to check each venue’s social media feeds to learn of any rain-related cancellations.

Wednesday, July 11

There’s no real need to pack a picnic for Movies with a View at Brooklyn Bridge Park–Smorgasburg vendors will supplying burgers, frites, pizza and ice cream on the Pier 1 promenade. Photo: Etienne Frossard